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Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Correspondent
POLICE in Bulawayo have impounded more than 100 vehicles without registration number plates amid reports that unregistered cars are linked to serious crimes in the city.
Acting Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Abednico Ncube said police have partnered with the Bulawayo City Council to rid the city of unregistered vehicles.
The police spokesperson warned that it might take a long process for owners of impounded vehicles to claim them back.
“The motoring public and vehicle owners be warned that police will stop and impound any motor vehicle found on the road without number plates.
You are also warned that once such vehicles are impounded, clearance will take a long period as reference would be made with various sections to satisfy ourselves that the vehicle is not stolen or was not used for criminal purposes,” Asst Insp Ncube said.
He bemoaned the public’s tolerance of these vehicles saying residents were exposing themselves to dangerous criminals who may be untraceable after committing crimes.
“Commuters and Bulawayo residents are urged to be wary of vehicles that do not have registration number plates. The majority of these vehicles are involved in crimes that include robberies and rape,” said Asst Insp Ncube.
“As police in Bulawayo we have noted with regret the increase in motor vehicles that ply our roads without number plates. These include kombis and private pirate taxis.”
He said police suspect that some of these vehicles were stolen from neighbouring countries.
Asst Insp Ncube said they were receiving reports of stolen vehicles from neighbouring countries and some of them are suspected to be finding their way into Zimbabwe, hence police were concerned.
He said impounded vehicles would only be released after a rigorous verification exercise is done.
Asst Insp Ncube also urged motorists to drive cautiously on the roads during this rainy season to reduce accidents.
— @nqotshili
Online Reporter